Jeep Cherokee XJs are as plentiful as they are cheap, and as such they make for a great entry-level rig for those who are new on the wheeling scene. Typically, new wheelers want to get in on the action, but don't have the deep pockets for the serious hardware. Fortunately, XJs are incredibly capable in stock form, and very minor mods can elevate the Cherokee to the status of a respectable trail machine.
Our pals over at Rubicon Express, a company known for manufacturing quality suspensions, have been successfully lifting Jeeps since 1996 and offer an entry-level system for the XJ that proves affordability and quality are not mutually exclusive. The Rubicon 2-inch Budget Lift is not only functional, but is very affordable. For a cool $259.95 you get spacers, an add-a-leaf, four shocks, and a rear brake-line extension. Quite the deal, especially if your XJ is in need of new shocks anyway.
This system is perfect for a guy who might want to give his Jeep a better stance, or for a new wheeler who needs a little more performance on the trail. Rubicon Express recommends 30x9.5-inch tires with this setup.
While we were busy working on Project 'Con Artist at Off Road Evolution in Fullerton, California, they happened to have a customer's XJ in the shop getting the Rubicon Express kit installed. We decided to give our newer wheeling friends out there some love and show what goes into installing a quality kit on a budget.
For just under $260, you get...
For just under $260, you get everything you see here: Two spacers, two add-a-leaves, four shocks, and a rear axle brake-line extension.
With the vehicle secured and...
With the vehicle secured and the wheels and tires removed, we got to work freeing the rear axle from the stock spring pack.
We then separated the lower...
We then separated the lower leaf from the pack and put the new add-a-leaf in place.
The modified leaf pack was...
The modified leaf pack was the reattached to the axle.
Next, we removed the stock...
Next, we removed the stock rear brake line and replaced it with the braided stainless steel line that was provided by Rubicon Express.
The rear was wrapped up by...
The rear was wrapped up by installing the new Rubicon Express shocks.